Advertisement
Russia restricts WhatsApp, Telegram calls, accusing apps of law breaches
The curbs are part of Russia’s push for ‘digital sovereignty’, which includes a new state-backed messaging app to reduce dependence on foreign tech
Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
Russia has started restricting some Telegram and WhatsApp calls, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of failing to share information with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases, the digital development ministry said on Wednesday.
Russia has clashed with foreign tech platforms for several years over content and data storage in a simmering dispute that intensified after Moscow’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with critics arguing that Russia is trying to expand its control over the country’s internet space.
President Vladimir Putin has authorised the development of a state-backed messaging app integrated with government services, as Moscow seeks to establish what it called “digital sovereignty” by promoting home-grown services and reducing its dependence on platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram.
Advertisement
“To counteract criminals … measures are being taken to partially restrict calls on these foreign messengers,” the Interfax news agency quoted communications regulator Roskomnadzor as saying. Roskomnadzor added that “no other restrictions have been imposed on their functionality”.
WhatsApp owner Meta Platforms and Telegram did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Advertisement
Reuters reporters verified the restrictions, noting that voice calls on Telegram had barely been functioning since August 11 and that WhatsApp calls had been rendered impossible due to intermittent sound and a metallic buzzing.
Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x